Seaford Herald 08-14-2025

Children took part in a bean bag toss, one of the many activities offered through

Seaford camp celebrates milestone Summer program marks 20 years of fun and community

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

For two decades, the Seaford Recreation summer program has offered a fun space for children from kindergarten through sixth grade to enjoy a variety of activities, and its founders continue to help kids to make the most of their summer.

The program takes place on the football field at Seaford High School, and this year children gathered for three hours each day from July 14 to Aug. 8 to take part in a variety of activities. Designed to offer something for those of all interests, whether sports or education, this year’s lineup included a sign language class and sports such as kickball and basketball. Other activities included bingo, bowling, wiffle ball and soccer.

Founded by Seaford teachers Ralph Pascarella and William Dietz, the program is now in its 20th year, and has become a fixture in the community. Pascarella, a phys. ed. teacher at Seaford High, and Dietz, a

sixth-grade teacher at the middle school, have both been part of the Seaford community for more than 20 years. They launched the summer program as a way to give back, offering an affordable camp experience for local families, Pascarella said.

“It’s a way for the community to have an inexpensive four to five weeks of camp,” Pascarella added.

Roughly 200 children took part in this summer’s program, according to Pascarella, with roughly 60 volunteers — a mix of middle and high school students, adults and district faculty members — helping to coordinate events. The program accepts kids from other communities as well, including Wantagh and Massapequa. While it is not officially part of the Seaford School District, the district supports the program by helping to advertise it and providing access to its fields.

For the program’s 20th anniversary, Pascarella organized a VIP Day on July 31 to thank the community for its years of sup-

A dedication to the art of music theater

By IRIS WIENER Correspondent

When longtime Seaford resident Kimberly Larkin launched a musical theater workshop in 2000, she never imagined that it would grow into a decades-long tradition — or that it would touch the lives of hundreds of aspiring performers across Long Island and beyond.

Celebrating its 25th year, the program is not just a professional milestone for Larkin — it’s a personal one, deeply rooted in her community.

Larkin is known locally for her work as a vocal teacher and musical theater educator. But each summer, she directs the Musical Theatre Summer Workshop at Queens College’s Eisman Center for Preparatory Studies in Music. The program celebrated its silver anniversary on July 24 with a showcase at the LeFrak Concert Hall, in Queens, where current students and alumni gathered to honor Larkin’s lasting impact.

time at Queens College. While working, she overheard administrators discussing upcoming summer programs and remembers them suggesting a musical theater workshop.

“They said, ‘If you can get the kids, you can do it,’” Larkin said. “It required a lot of word of mouth.”

That first summer, nine children enrolled, and by the third year, she had 20. In 2019, the program had reached capacity.

I never went into it thinking it would be a long-term project.

KImBERly lARKIN Vocal teacher

When Larkin started the camp, she was a graduate student at NYU and working part-

“I never went into it thinking it would be a longterm project,” Larkin said.

The three-week workshop now draws students ages 9 to 17 from across Long Island and New York City. Modeled on a conservatory setting, the program includes voice training, group harmonies, acting, monologue work, audition coaching, dance, and ensemble development. Broadway professionals often guest-direct scenes or choreograph numbers.

One of them is Victoria

Continued on page 16

Wantagh Middle School earns Heart Safe School recognition

Wantagh Middle School has been designated a Project ADAM Heart Safe School, thanks to the efforts of longtime school nurse Hildi Dzigas and a team of trained staff. The recognition highlights the school’s preparedness to respond to cardiac emergencies.

— Charles Shaw

n The initiative began with one nurse’s vision

Hildi Dzigas, who has served as Wantagh Middle School’s nurse for 16 years, was inspired to form a cardiac response team after learning about Project ADAM on Facebook. The national program helps schools implement lifesaving protocols and train staff in CPR and AED use. After receiving support from Superintendent John McNamara in spring 2024, Dzigas began building the program with guidance from Project ADAM’s New York State coordinators.

n Staff volunteers completed AED and CPR training

Dzigas worked with Principal Anthony Ciuffo and other staff members to form a Cardiac Emergency Response Team. Team members—including administrators, teachers, and security staff—underwent CPR/AED training and participated in a cardiac emergency drill. “We hope that it is never needed,” Ciuffo said, “but we are now confident that we are giving ourselves the best chance to save a life!”

n The plan is now part of the school’s safety procedures

Following a building walkthrough and emergency drill, the school’s response plan was reviewed and integrated into the Wantagh School District’s official safety plan.

AED signage was updated throughout the building as part of the preparation process. The school’s certification makes it part of a growing network of Heart Safe Schools nationwide.

To learn more about Project ADAM, visit projectadam.com.

Wantagh Middle School has been recognized as a Project ADAM Heart Safe School thanks to school nurse Hildi Dzigas’ efforts to improve cardiac emergency preparedness.

Marching band prepares movie-themed show

The Seaford High School marching band is gearing up for a cinematic season with its new show, “Seaford Goes to the Movies.” During camp from Aug. 4–7, the 107 band and color guard members began learning music and formations for the nearly 10-minute performance, which features selections from Avengers, High School Musical, Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean and Star Wars.

The show will be performed at four home football games, the Newsday Marching Band Festival in October, and the homecoming parade.

This year’s camp was led by band directors from the high school and middle school, along with Seaford alum Angela Dean. Drum majors are seniors Cameron Calderaro and Brian Karaman. The camp also featured themed days like America Day and Twin Day, and wrapped up with a sneak peek for families.

Second Marriage Planning

In second marriage planning, a co-trustee is sometimes recommended on the death of the first spouse. While both spouses are living and competent they run their trust or trusts together. But when one spouse dies, what prevents the other spouse from diverting all of the assets to their own children? Nothing at all, if they alone are in charge. While most people are honorable, and many are certain their spouse would never do such a thing, strange things often happen later in life. A spouse may become forgetful, delusional or senile or may be influenced by other parties. Not only that, but the children of the deceased spouse tend to feel very insecure when they find out their stepparent is in charge of all of the couple’s assets.

If you choose one of the deceased spouse’s children to act as co-trustee with the surviving spouse there is a conflict that exists whereby the stepchild may be reluctant to spend assets for the surviving spouse, because whatever is spent on that spouse comes out of the child’s inheritance. Then what if stepparent gets remarried? How will the stepchild trustee react to that event? What if it

turns out the stepchild liked the stepparent when his parent was living, but not so much afterwards?

Here is where the lawyer as co-trustee may provide an ideal solution. When one parent dies, the lawyer steps in as co-trustee with the surviving spouse. The lawyer helps the stepparent to invest for their own benefit as well as making sure the principal grows to offset inflation, for the benefit of the deceased spouse’s heirs. The stepparent in this case takes care of all their business privately with their lawyer. The trusts cannot be raided. These protections may also be extended for IRA and 401(k) money passing to the spouse through the use of the “IRA Contract”. Surviving spouse agrees ahead of time that they will make an irrevocable designation of the deceased spouse’s children as beneficiaries when the IRA is left to the surviving spouse, and further agrees that any withdrawals in excess of the required minimum distribution (RMD) may only be made on consent of the lawyer.

Second marriage planning offers numerous traps for the unwary.

Kalia raises money for animal shelter

Kalia, a young entrepreneur from Bellmore, raised money for the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh by running her own lemonade and espresso stand. State Sen. Steve Rhoads stopped by on July 18 to show his support, praising her business skills and dedication to helping animals.

News briefs

Mastropierro receives prestigious award

GC Tech student Cosimo Mastropierro, of Levittown, was honored with the Dr. Robert R. Dillon Outstanding Teamwork Award on July 17, presented by the Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation.

The award is a part of the annual Dr. Robert R. Dillon Awards which celebrate students in three categories: the Core Values Champion Award, for those who embody compassion, equity, excellence, integrity, and respect; the Exemplary Citizenship and Leadership Award, for students showing exceptional leadership and building positive relationships; and the Outstanding Team-

work Award, recognizing students with exceptional team-focused skills who collaborate to achieve positive outcomes for the greater good.

Mastropierro was recognized for his ability to work effectively with peers, foster positive outcomes, and embody the spirit of teamwork central to Nassau BOCES’ mission.

“These awards honor Dr. Dillon’s dedication to educational opportunity and excellence,” Anthony Fierro, Chairperson of the Foundation, said. Mastropierro received a $100 scholarship and a certificate during GC Tech’s celebration.

— Darsh Mirchandani

Nassau H.S. football kicks off Sept. 5

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is less than a month away.

On Aug. 18, all 53 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 5 with a handful of Conference IV games leading up to the first full slate the following week.

Aside from then eight-time defending Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, which saw it dominate the competition on the way to another title, the biggest news last offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot. That’ll continue in 2025 and possibly beyond, first-year Section VIII football coordinator Joe Martillotti said, as the county builds its varsity officials staff.

“We’re definitely in better shape with officiating crews as we were last year,” Martillotti said. “Some are doubling up with 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. games on Saturday. We don’t have enough officials to play every game at 2 p.m. on Saturday, but there’s also more and more teams playing Friday night which helps.”

Some teams with multiple 11 a.m. starts this season include Clarke (four), Carey (three), Sewanhaka (three), South Side (three), Uniondale (three), Elmont (two), Valley Stream South (two) and Wantagh (two.)

Massapequa (Conference I), Carey (II), Garden City (III) and Wantagh (IV) won county titles last season, but the landscape has changed again with Rutgers Cup winner Garden City moving back to Conference II, Wantagh returning to Conference III where Carey also resides now.

Carey and Wantagh are seeded No. 1 and 2, respectively, but won’t meet until Week 7 (Oct. 25) at the home of the Seahawks. Carey, which defeated Half Hollow Hills East for the Long Island Class II crown to cap an undefeated campaign, opens at home Sept. 13 against Valley Stream South.

Massapequa, which won the Rutgers Cup in 2023 and seeks a third straight county title, is ranked second behind Farmingdale this season. The Chiefs won an overtime thriller over the Dalers in the Conference I championship game last November. The teams will meet again in Week 6 at Farmingdale. Massapequa opens at home versus Freeport Sept. 13; the Dalers host Syosset the previous evening.

Third-ranked Long Beach is tasked with opening the season against Garden City in the Trojans’ return to Conference II. Garden City has won a remarkable 54 consecutive games.

10 games to watch

Sept. 12 Freeport at Massapequa

Sept. 13 Garden City at Long Beach

Sept. 19 Farmingdale at Oceanside

Sept. 27 Carey at South Side

Oct. 4 Plainedge at Lynbrook

Oct. 11 Mepham at Garden City

Oct. 18 Massapequa at Farmingdale

Oct. 25 Wantagh at Carey

Oct. 25 Freeport at Oceanside

Oct. 31 Seaford at Plainedge

Conference IV runner-up Plainedge is ranked at the top this season and kicks off on the road at North Shore Sept. 6.

Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, making Aug. 29 the first potential date. Teams can conduct joint practices as soon as Aug. 23 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear.

Nine teams switch conferences

Along with Garden City, Carey and Wantagh, six additional teams switched conferences for 2025 based on enrollment figures. East Meadow and Valley Stream Central slid from Conference I to II, Sewanhaka from II to III, BellmoreJFK from III to II, Valley Stream South from IV to III, and Lynbrook from III to IV. East Meadow and Kennedy meet Week 1 in Bellmore. Valley Stream Central opens at home against MacArthur, Sewanhaka hosts Floral Park, and Lynbrook hits the road to face Malverne.

Few coaching changes

Last season saw new head coaches debut at Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford and at the midway mark, Lawrence. Most of those squads enjoyed success and were part of the Nassau County playoffs.

This year there’s new sideline bosses at North Shore and Manhasset. Dan Agovino left a legacy at North Shore with 23 years at the helm and led the Vikings to a pair of county championships and their first-ever L.I. title in recent seasons. Longtime assistant Bill Madigan takes over. At Manhasset, Mike Lewis takes over for legendary Jay Iaquinta.

Chase Samelson is set to be Lynbrook’s starting quarterback this fall.

Nick Carentz and Oceanside will take on Farmingdale Sept. 19. Eric Dunetz/Herald photos

—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport

Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island’s Business First Program. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space and rebates for upgrading to efficient LED lighting. Now, she’s saving on energy costs and her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.

More ask, ‘Can we afford to live here?’

Breaking down Long Island’s housing affordability crisis, affecting both homeowners and renters

By JORDAN VALLONE, RENEE DeLORENZO & AINSLEY MARTINEZ of Herald Community Newspapers

First in a series about housing on Long Island.

On Long Island, where the cost of living continues to climb, the term “affordable housing” is often misunderstood — or dangerously oversimplified.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, housing is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross income. But even in Nassau and Suffolk counties, where the median household income hovers around $125,000, many families find themselves priced out of both the rental and homeownership markets.

This series — “Priced Out: the Fight for Affordable Housing” — begins by laying the groundwork: breaking down terms like “affordable” and “low-income” housing, and clarifying how programs like Section 8 fit in. It also examines who is impacted — not only low-income residents, but also middle-class workers, retirees on fixed incomes, and young adults trying to remain in the communities where they grew up.

Through interviews with housing experts and advocates, and an analysis of Long Island housing data, this first installment provides context to help readers understand the scale and complexity of the crisis — and sets the stage for further installments in the weeks ahead.

Understanding affordable housing, and how Long Island measures up

According to HUD, “affordable housing” means housing that is affordable for people with low to moderate incomes. The definition of “low income” is based on Area Median Income, or AMI, which varies by region and household size.

Affordable housing should cost no more than 30 percent of a household’s monthly income — whether that’s rent and utilities for renters, or mortgage and housing expenses for homeowners. Households spending more than that are considered “cost burdened,” with many forced to sacrifice other essentials like food, transportation and health care.

A 2024 report by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli found that nearly 3 million New York households spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. One in five households experiences a “severe cost burden,” devoting more than half of their income to housing.

On Long Island, 36 percent of households fall into the cost-burdened category.

Programs like Section 8 — part of the public housing system administered by HUD — provide housing assistance for low-income residents. Eligibility varies by location, as does the availability of units.

Long Island is grappling with an affordable-housing crisis. The high cost of homes and high rent

make it nearly impossible for many people to find housing — an issue that has many causes.

Freeport is an affordable-housing community, but experts contend that there is a need for

Racism, said that the housing crisis disproportionately impacts minority communities due to extensive segregation in Long Island’s housing market. She added that there is often an implicit bias among residents about who affordable housing is designed to serve.

“It isn’t just about welfare,” Taylor said.

On Long Island, some village or town-level housing authorities administer public housing and Section 8 programs, though inventory is usually small or seniorfocused, according to information from the Long Island Center for Independent Living.

What do experts have to say?

Hunter Gross, vice president of the Huntington Township Housing Coalition — which advocates for the Long Island Housing Coalition — said that Long Island’s housing crisis touches a wide range of residents.

“The affordable housing crisis on Long Island is affecting you unless you’re rich,” Gross said simply. “It’s affecting most people, regardless of ethnicity, skin color and profession.”

April Francis Taylor, acting president of ERASE

Many families — particularly in communities of color — have not had the economic opportunity to accumulate generational wealth, Taylor explained. That wealth is often passed down in the form of cash, investments or property.

Those who have never owned homes are still playing catch-up, she said. And the harder it is for them to purchase homes, the harder it becomes to improve their economic conditions. This reinforces the need for fair housing in achieving racial equity, a key mission of ERASE Racism.

“There’s generational things, there’s racial things — the economic piece of those is huge,” Taylor said.

One of the policies that helps address the issue, Gross explained, is inclusionary zoning, which sets aside a portion of apartment units at below market rates.

Currently, Long Island has income-restricted rental housing funded by low-income tax credits, as well as workforce housing, Section 8 housing and senior affordable housing developments. But, Gross said, there is not nearly enough of it.

Expanding the types of affordable housing on Long Island — while increasing access to what already exists — is essential to meeting the needs of all demographics, he said. That includes building more accessory dwelling units, higher-density housing, and senior housing options, so older residents can downsize and make room for younger families in the market.

“It’s a domino effect,” Gross said.

Without meaningful efforts to make Long Island

This crisis spares none ‘unless you’re rich’

more affordable, young professionals looking to start families are leaving, he added. The median home price continues to climb, making ownership less attainable. “There’s a mass exodus of young professionals because they can’t afford a home here,” Gross said. “We’re losing so many folks.”

When young people are driven out of communities, the National Low Income Housing Coalition states, it weakens local economies by shrinking the workforce and straining public services.

Expanding affordable housing, Gross said, would help lower housing prices across the board.

A 2024 study by Urban Wire, a blog by the Urban Institute, found that new housing construction in areas with less restrictive zoning laws resulted in lower prices — evidence of which was observed in Houston, Texas.

But that’s only part of the picture. On Long Island, Gross said, there are still many barriers to building affordable housing. Zoning laws, land-use policies and a lack of public assistance all need to be addressed comprehensively.

“The only way we can actually make a difference in this crisis is by changing our policy,” Gross said. “We can work with our town boards, but they have to be willing to accept the reality of the crisis that we’re in and agree we really need to start making changes.”

What the data says: a Herald analysis of L.I. home prices

A Herald analysis of 1,052 homes currently listed on Redfin, a real estate brokerage website, across 27 municipalities in Nassau and Suffolk counties and surrounding areas reveals a regional housing market under pressure, with high prices and a shrinking pool of affordable homes.

Across all listings, the median home price was $809,500, roughly 9.5 times the median income, according to U.S. Census data. The homes averaged 2,161 square feet. Only 0.76 percent of the listings — just eight homes — were under $255,000, and considered affordable under a standard affordability metric, with prices no more than three times the median household income of $85,000.

Oyster Bay and Glen Head had the highest average list prices, more than $3.4 million, with their average home sizes nearing 5,000 square feet. Homes in the top 5 percent of the market cost more than $2.57 million, with several listings above $10 million.

The most expensive home per square foot was a 320-square-foot bungalow in Freeport listed at an eye-popping $2,343 per square foot, more than four times the regional average.

Other towns with high price-persquare-foot values included Sea Cliff and Oceanside, all indicating strong demand for smaller, high-end properties in desirable waterfront or coastal-adjacent locations.

A handful of communities — East Rockaway, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre and Valley Stream— had

the chart above shows the median list prices of homes in 28 areas of Long island, based

Herald file photo

Zoning laws in local municipalities impact housing on Long island. throughout her term as governor, Kathy Hochul has tried to adjust laws to bolster housing here. She was met with criticism from area officials who campaigned to “Save our Suburbs.”

the only listings flagged as potentially affordable. Each had one or two homes priced below $255,000.

Still, these were outliers. In most towns, even entry-level listings exceeded $600,000. The average price per square foot across the region was $510, but several areas exceeded $600, making them among the most expensive for their size.

The gap between municipalities is stark. The average home in Oyster Bay costs nearly five times as much as the

average home in Freeport.

Despite the variety of housing stock, most homes shared certain characteristics: around four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and measuring between 1,700 and 2,400 square feet.

With prices elevated and affordability metrics strained, first-time buyers and middle-income families face daunting odds in securing homeownership on Long Island without substantial wealth or financing.

Key terms, explained

■ Affordable housing: Defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as housing that costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross monthly income, including rent or mortgage plus utilities.

■ Cost burdened: A household that spends more than 30 percent of its income on housing. “Severely cost burdened” applies when more than 50 percent of income goes toward housing.

■ Section 8: A federal housing program providing rental assistance to low-income households. It includes:

■ Project-based subsidies tied to specific buildings

■ Housing Choice Vouchers: portable subsidies tenants can use to pay rent

Kids’ summer program celebrates 20 years

port. Children were encouraged to bring someone special — a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle — to share the day, and enjoy games, music and cold treats.

“We wanted to include the community to celebrate with us,” Pascarella said. “It’s just a nice thing to do, and we wanted to include everybody.”

The program has evolved significantly over the years, becoming a much-anticipated event each summer. Interest has grown largely through word of mouth, Pascarella said, and he credits the staff, parents and community for its success.

“It’s amazing,” Dietz said. “It just goes to show how much support we have from the community.”

Highlights of the program include Color War, in which teams of children compete in games including cornhole, soccer and a water relay. Another highlight is a visit from the Seaford Fire Department. Pascarella said that firefighters come each year to teach fire safety, show the kids their equipment, let them sit in a truck and shower them with a fire hose.

Among the counselors are former Seaford students who once took part in the program. Michael Lent, 19, a 2023 Seaford High graduate, has volunteered for nine years. Before that, he participated from kindergarten through sixth grade. Lent is now at Michigan State University, majoring in psychology and criminal justice.

The summer program, he said, offers a safe environment in which kids can enjoy the weather for a few hours each day. “I love the kids, and a lot of my friends are doing it,” Lent said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Though this year’s program has concluded, Pascarella said he looked forward to continuing to bring creative activities to it while keeping the cost affordable for families, ensuring that the experience remains fun and accessible.

“I hope to continue to have fun,” he said, “and to try to come up with new things and new activities. The kids come and have fun — it’s a laid-back atmosphere.”

Ralph Pascarella, a longtime Seaford High School phys. ed. teacher, co-founded the Seaford Recreation summer program 20 years ago to provide local families with an affordable and engaging camp experience.

New service dog joins Special Victims Bureau

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Samosa III, a Labrador-golden retriever mix nearing her second birthday, has become a key member of the Nassau County district attorney’s office.

The easygoing puppy took part in Canine Companions’ National Graduation Ceremony last Friday at the organization’s Northeast Training Center in Medford. The group was one of the country’s first service dog providers, and is celebrating its 50th year in operation. Samosa III will serve as a facility dog, bred and trained specifically to support people testifying in sensitive court cases.

She was one of 56 dogs who graduated from Canine Companions. On stage, her leash was officially handed off from Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw to Amber Kemperman, the assistant district attorney for the D.A.’s office’s Special Victims Bureau.

“We’re very excited to have Samosa in the Nassau D.A.’s office,” Kemperman said. “We’re excited to see her personality come through a little more, with how affectionate and playful she can be.”

As a part of the D.A.’s team, Samosa will be involved in many cases, helping victims of crimes process their feelings while working with law enforcement. “Samosa will be coming to work with me every day,” Kemperman explained. “She will be able to sit in on meetings and interviews with victims of domestic violence and child sexual abuse victims and provide comfort for them as they talk through the details of everything that they’ve gone through.”

McGraw, a volunteer trainer, raised Samosa through a program offered at the University of Pitts-

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, left, Assistant District Attorney Amber Kemperman and Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw celebrated Samosa III’s graduation last Friday.

burgh. After she passed the leash to Kemperman at Friday’s graduation, she welled up.

“It’s kind of surreal to think about the past year of my life with her,” McGraw said of her four-legged trainee. “When I look at her, I see a little three-and-ahalf-month-old puppy, and now she’s off to do really

great things. Being a part of this organization has just honestly changed my life, and I couldn’t recommend it more.

“Samosa taught me as much as I taught her,” McGraw continued. “I’m just so proud of her, and I couldn’t picture a better match and better fit for her than to work with people who really need her.”

District Attorney Anne Donnelly was a special guest speaker at the graduation. “These dogs will make an enormous difference in so many lives, especially my Special Victims Bureau,” she told the crowd of people and canines. “I am grateful for our partnership with Canine Companions.”

Donnelly praised Samosa as a dog with a gift for relaxation.

“She was paired with our Special Victims Bureau because of how easygoing she is,” she explained. “Those qualities are desperately needed when it comes to helping victims of physical and sexual abuse feel a sense of calm.”

The graduating class was made up of four-legged experts in over 40 areas, able to support people of all ages with special needs or disabilities, helping them live with a greater degree of independence. The dogs are provided to clients at no cost.

Beyond the graduates, the ceremony also celebrated a new chapter for two longtime staff members at Canine Companions’ Medford center. Debra Dougherty is stepping down as executive director, and Ellen Torop, a mentor trainer of 36 years, is retiring.

“It was absolutely my dream job,” Torop said. “It was a beautiful marriage of what fascinated me about dogs, and also having an opportunity to feel like I had an immediate impact on people’s lives.”

Larkin reflects on 25 years of musical theater

O’Shea, a North Bellmore native who began as a camper in 2018. She returned as a volunteer and now serves as a staff choreographer while studying classical vocal performance at NYU’s Steinhardt School.

“Some of the things we do at NYU are the same things we did at camp,” she said. “They were really mature things to be working on at 14.”

She also reflected on a new tradition forming at the showcase: “A camper sang ‘Woman’ from ‘The Pirate Queen,’ and I remember singing that when I was a camper,” she said. “One of the alums in the audience sang that song when she was a camper too, and she had assigned that song to me. It’s becoming a nice tradition.”

Larkin placed emphasis on the program’s focus on individual growth. “I want them to really look at the process and gain technique, the showcase is secondary,” she said. “Some of the kids who got on the stage at the showcase have never performed on a stage before.”

But many go on to pursue careers in the arts, and three alumni have performed on Broadway, including Mateo Lizcano of “Dear Evan Hansen.” One student starred in Disney’s “Raven’s Home.” Others have become teachers, doctors and lawyers — all carrying lessons from the stage into their professional lives.

The campers are diverse in both background and aspiration. Lily Perez, 14, of Lynbrook, rekindled her love of dance through the program.

“People should join the camp even if they don’t have a background,” she said. “They’ll just learn to love it.”

Zoe Armstrong of Port Washington said the monologue coaching helped her gain confidence. Grace Gatta of Floral Park credited the experience with fuel-

Seaford resident Kimberly Larkin, standing center, marked 25 years of directing a summer musical theater workshop at Queens College that has helped hundreds of young performers from Long island and beyond develop their talents and confidence on stage.

ing her creative drive. And Eirini Stavropoulos of Roslyn said the format — which avoids assigning “leads” — allows every student to shine.

“This camp is unique because it’s about you and your own voice,” she said. “Everyone is a lead.”

As for running the camp in Queens while living in Seaford, Larkin sees it as a benefit. “It’s because I live in Seaford that I am able to see all of the amazing talent on Long Island, New York and Queens,” she said. “This program allows me to bring it all together.” She hopes the program continues for another 25 years. “I’m proud of the reputation of the program,” she said, “and I look forward to seeing how the kids continue to grow and do incredible things.”

High School Football Preview is coming!

Get ready for an action-packed season with the 2025 High School Football Preview.

Your ultimate guide to the upcoming year in local high school football. This special section highlights the teams, standout players, key matchups, and expert analysis of what to expect under the Friday night lights.

Don’t miss out, advertising in the Football Preview. Call your Marketing Representative today at 516-569-4000 x 250!

Ad deadline - August 28th

Issue date - September 18th

AUGUST 19TH | DUSK

CEDAR CREEK PARK

Merrick Road east of Wantagh Avenue, Seaford

STEPPING OUT

Unleash a

The Midtown Men

Jump in to solve a prehistoric ‘mystery’

Former stars of the award-winning jukebox musical “Jersey Boys,” reunited as The Midtown Men, are back with their ‘60s vibe at Eisenhower Park. During their time in the mega-hit, Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony nominee J. Robert Spencer shared the stage for over 1,000 performances. These Broadway veterans, with their powerhouse band, are realizing the dream they brought to life as the iconic Four Seasons. The Midtown Men is the next chapter for these accomplished entertainers, making them the first vocal group ever formed by the principal cast of a high-profile Broadway show. Not only have they continued to win over audiences of all ages in nearly 2,000 live shows, their self-titled debut album, “The Midtown Men: Sixties Hits” was met with critical acclaim and garnered five star album reviews across iTunes and was followed by their first radio single “All Alone On Christmas.”

By Abbey Salvemini

Long Island Children’s Museum goes prehistoric this summer, bringing dinosaurs to life both in the exhibit space and on stage! Budding paleontologists have been digging into the exhibit “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” where they uncover ancient secrets through real fossils and life-size skeletal replicas.

That prehistoric excitement leaps to the stage in the form of the museum’s latest original production. Newly installed theater co-directors Lisa Rudin and Austin Costello share visitors’ dino-fever and welcome everyone to “Unbox A Saurus For Us!”

Using the exhibit as its starting point, everyone enjoys what Costello describes as “a chaotic, interactive half hour of dinosaur comedy.”

For those who have yet to experience it, now’s the time, as show will soon be extinct — it closes Aug. 27!

The escapades actually begin within the exhibit area itself, where Rudin and Costello discuss the production and educate families about the fossil display.

“We wanted to do something fun, lighthearted and really interactive. We decided to start the show in the exhibit. We do about 10-15 minutes where we talk to kids and tell them about the show. When they come in, they get to go through the process of “un-boxing our saurus.” If they don’t come to the exhibit, that’s okay too, it’s not like you have to have one to understand the other,” Rudin explains.

The original storyline is based on the fictional eccentric Dr. Patricia Osiris, who works for the organization Dinorama. She’s set to uncrate a huge dinosaur she “discovered” for the museum, but misplaced her keys to the crate. She then calls out for help get the creature out of the box, encouraging everyone to use their imaginations. Each audience essentially carries out the remainder of what unfolds on stge by becoming problem solvers to assist scatterbrained Dr. Patti.

“The children have the power in that the show will not continue if they don’t play along,” Costello adds. It involves some creative improvisation, which gives each staging a special twist, depending upon the involvement of the audience.

“We do have a point in the show where we ask the kids to help us name the dinosaur. We also have a

• Aug. 20 and 27, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Aug. 24, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

• $5 with museum admission, $4 members, $10 theater only

• Tickets can be purchased at licm.org/theater or at the box office

• Museum Row, Garden City

moment where they get to ask the dinosaur questions, and of course, Austin [Costello], who is in the dinosaur costume, comes up with some really good answers,” Rudin says.

One thing is for certain: the “Saurus” will always be unboxed one way or another.

“My favorite moment is when the dinosaur is finally revealed because people really don’t know what to expect. They don’t know if it’s going to be a puppet or a costume and we do our best in not giving it away until the moment so that’s a really fun bit. A lot of excited, happy screaming,” Costello shares.

Rudin, who also a teaching artist when not involved with her museum theater duties explains that she specifically chooses comedy — and material — that young children respond to effectively.

“I like to bring a lot of joy to our audiences. They leave the show having had a lot of fun and the parents have had the joy and the pride in seeing their child participate. It’s just a joyful, fun, happy experience,” Rudin says.

And there’s even more to look forward to — the museum is already planning a series of original stage productions inspired by its upcoming exhibits, bringing hands-on learning to life in new and exciting ways.

Saturday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny. gov for info and updates.

Monster Truck madness

day-only performance is part of the

Also don’t miss “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale,” a delightful stage adaptation of Gay Thomas’s heartwarming book, on Aug. 16. The story celebrates the power of working together toward a shared goal — all wrapped in a fun, fact-filled adventure buzzing with bee-related tidbits. The oneday-only performance is part of the museum’s annual sweet summer celebration, Honey Hoopla.

Rudin and Costello bring an energetic mix of comedy and imagination with an educational component to their productions, which introduce young audiences to live theater. The duo cultivates a joyful and engaging environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and laughter — leaving children and adults with lasting memories.

“Who wants to help uncover a dinosaur?” Yashaun Harris rallies young “paleontologists” for hands-on dinosaur fun during a pre-performance introduction inside the Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed exhibit.

UBS Arena explodes with the raw power of epic machines at Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live. “Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life in Glow-N-Fire action. Everyone will enjoy the added fiery twist: pyrotechnic effects light up the arena. To make this show even more special, get ready an adrenalinefueled birthday party as the original monster truck that started it all, Bigfoot, marks its 50th year of entertaining fans. Of course, there’s so much more to grab your attention. Check out Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Gunkster, and the newest entry, Skelesaurus, the giant that unleashes his fossil fury. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks freestyle motocross team.

Saturday, Aug, 16, 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 17, 2:30 p.m. UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. Tickets available at hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com or ticketmaster.com.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

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On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

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Pre-Shabbat on the Beach

Join Congregation Beth Tikvah for a musical Pre-Shabbat singalong at Jones Beach Field

6. Services are free, open to all and follow traditional Jewish Shabbat rituals. Bring seating, there is no parking fee after 4 p.m.

•Where: 1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh (meet on the boardwalk west of the comfort station)

• Time: 6-6:45 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 785-2445

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Music Monday

Relax with live music in the parking lot of Wantagh Library as part of the Music Monday summer series. Concerts are free and open to all, just bring a lawn chair and enjoy the evening.

•Where: Park Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

•Contact: wantaghlibrary.org for more information

In concert

Eisenhower Park welcomes Stan Zizka and the Del Satins. Step back to those doo-wop days and enjoy some nostalgic melodies.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 5 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons: The Last Encores

For over 60 years, Frankie Valli has captured the hearts and souls of fans worldwide with unforgettable hits such as “Sherry” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Now Frankie makes his way back to New York on his farewell tour at Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair. It promises to be a poignant celebration of Valli’s legendary career, showcasing his timeless music and incredible showmanship. The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. Now 91, Valli is the only original member still performing with the group, which has been entertaining fans for more than six decades. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as “The Deer Hunter,” “Dirty Dancing,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Conspiracy Theory” and “The Wanderers.” As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. They continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations. Valli’s long-lasting career led to the overwhelming success of the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys,” which chronicles Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons incredible career and features all of their greatest hits. The 12th longest-running show on Broadway has been seen by over 30 million people.

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Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.

•Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

•Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15–10 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 221-2370

Unbox A-Saurus for Us!

Young paleontologists-in-training are sure to enjoy Long Island Children’s Museum’s new stage production. This interactive theatrical experience invites visitors to join an eccentric paleontologist (a.k.a. “Dr. Patti”) as she attempts to reveal a neverbefore-seen dinosaur specimen — if only she can figure out how to open the crate it’s locked in. Along the way, the audience becomes key players in solving problems, sparking laughter and exploring the world of dinosaurs in a lighthearted “scientific” comedy that blends imagination and learning. $5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug 24 and Aug. 27

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Game time

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Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided.

$5 contribution.

•Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

•Time: Thursdays, noon-4 p.m.

•Contact: mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or (516) 785-2445

Thursday Night Live

Wantagh Chamber of Commerce presents a free summer block party series featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors. Join in the fun on Railroad Avenue outside Mulcahy’s and in the parking lot behind The Irish Poet.

•Where: Railroad Avenue, Wantagh (outside Mulcahy’s)

•Time: 5 p.m., also Aug. 28

•Contact: wantaghchamber.com for details

Swifties in the park

Get your Taylor groove on with Let’s Sing Taylor, with the Taylor Swift Experience tribute.

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Summertime tunes

Seaford Public Library’s summer outdoor concert series returns with performances spanning Beatles covers, doo-wop, pop, and classic rock. Concerts are free and held in the Town of Hempstead parking lot behind the library. Bring a chair and enjoy the music!

•Where: 2234 Jackson Ave., Seaford

•Time: 7:30 p.m., also Sept. 6

•Contact: seafordlibrary.org

Long Island Celtic Festival and Highland Games

Enjoy a the second edition of the festival devoted to honoring Celtic heritage on the expansive lawns in front of historic Westbury House. With entertainment, competitions, vendors, refreshments and more.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

•Where: 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury

• Time: 8 p.m.

•Contact: livenation.com

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Little Learners Art Lab

Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week, experiment with creating drip paintings. $4 with museum admission.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

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Summer sounds

Enjoy ‘70s and ‘80s soft rock with Yachtley Crew at Eisenhower Park.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

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Paumanacke Garden Club

Love to garden or have questions about plants? Join fellow gardening enthusiasts at the Paumanacke Garden Club meeting at Wantagh Library.

•Where: 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh

•Time: 6-7:30 p.m.

•Contact: rlkjb@optonline.net or (516) 781-5019

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Rock on at the park

Get in the groove with Led Zeppelin tribute band Misty Mountain and The Who tribute band Who’s Next at Eisenhower Park.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

Donald Clavin resigns as town supervisor

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald X. Clavin Jr. resigned during Tuesday’s town board meeting, and Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti was appointed as the interim supervisor.

After a brief recess, Clavin returned to announce that he was stepping down after holding office since 2020.

“I want to say what an honor and a privilege and a friendship all of you have been. And to the residents, you have always been very kind to me,” said Clavin, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve all of you. Even the critics have been the nicest people in the world to me. And I wish all of you the greatest success, and God bless you and God bless America.”

and other municipalities.

“The Board’s action ensures continuity of representation for residents of America’s largest township,” Cairo said. “What’s more, both Democrat and Republican majorities in control of local governments have employed this practice. I am confident that Supervisor Ferretti will provide excellent leadership for the town, bringing a solid record of reducing taxes and providing high quality services.”

Clavin, who was in his third two-year term, did not state his reasoning for his resignation. In April, he declined the Republican Party’s nomination for a fourth term and is thought to be considering a run for a judgeship. Ferretti was picked to replace him.

After his final words, he exited the meeting with a standing ovation from attendees and former fellow board members. The meeting continued after he left.

In a statement from Nassau County Republican Committee Chairman Joseph G. Cairo Jr., appointing elected officials has been done by officials in the North Hempstead, Hempstead and Babylon towns, the City of Long Beach

In June, the Democrats lead by Democratic Supervisor candidate Joseph Scianablo unveiled proposed legislation to ban the practice of appointing town supervisors without a public election.

“This appointment is an insult to every voter in the Town of Hempstead,” Scianablo said in a statement.

“Ferretti will now enjoy the perks of office, cars, gas, glossy mailers, and free publicity, all paid for by taxpayers, to run a campaign that was rigged from the start, not to mention a $60,000 raise.”

Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow, the Democratic candidate for county executive, aimed his anger at his Republican opponent, incumbent County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

“Don Clavin just stepped down as Hempstead supervisor — exactly as we predicted last week — so that Blakeman’s chosen crony could gain an advantage in the upcoming election,” Koslow said. “This is a shameful attempt to circumvent the will of the voters and dismantle the democratic process.”

News brief

Before digging, residents should call 811

With National 811 Day having passed on Aug. 11, PSEG Long Island is continuing to remind homeowners and contractors to make a free call to 811 before starting any digging project—even small ones like planting trees or installing fence posts.

The utility company emphasizes that calling 811 is not just a safety recommendation, but a legal requirement in New York. The service connects callers to a local one-call center, which alerts utility companies to mark out underground gas, electric, water or cable lines with flags, paint, or both.

“Calling 811 ahead of time is always essential, whether you’re working on a small project or hiring contractors for a big job,” said Michael Sullivan, vice president of Electric Operations at PSEG Long Island. “It helps protect underground utility lines and, more importantly, the safety of anyone digging.”

Last year, more than 193,000 mark-out requests were made in PSEG Long Island’s service area. So far this year, over 115,000 requests have already been logged. Despite outreach efforts, a significant number of diggers continue to skip the call. According to the Common Ground Alliance, about 40 percent of active diggers across North America do not call 811, often assuming their work is too shallow to require it.

PSEG Long Island warns that digging without knowing what’s below can cause severe injury, property damage, and disruptions in service.

The utility recommends placing the call at least two business days before starting work to allow time for all utility companies to respond and confirm that the area is safe to dig.

— Charles Shaw

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Ferretti, Scianablo spar over 2008 Facebook post

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Outside the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh on Aug. 11, Interim Supervisor John Ferretti raised concerns over a 17-year-old Facebook post attributed to his Democratic opponent, Joseph Scianablo.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN

TRUST 2005-B, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-B, -against-

MICHAEL LOBASSO

A/K/A

MICHAEL LOBASSO JR, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 17, 2023, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN

TRUST 2005-B, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2005-B is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL LOBASSO A/K/A

MICHAEL LOBASSO JR, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 9, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2303 PINE ST, SEAFORD, NY 11783; and the following tax map identification: 006300106-00 - 00074, 00075 & 00076. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SEAFORD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 009951/2015. Tara Mayerhofer, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 154921

LEGAL NOTICE October 2025 Meeting Date Change Notice is hereby given that the Seaford Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York, will hold its regular Interim Meeting for the month of October 2025, on the First Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 9:00 P.M., at the Seaford Fire Headquarters, 2170 Southard Avenue, Seaford, New York 11783-2544. All meetings of the Seaford Fire District are open to the public.

===============

By order of: Board of Fire Commissioners Seaford Fire District

Dated: August 4, 2025

Michael R. Foran, Secretary 155110

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO. 47-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of August, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. -2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 47-2025, to amend Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: August 5, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 155111

LEGAL NOTICE September 2025 Meeting Date Change Notice is hereby given that the Seaford Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York, will hold its regular Interim Meeting for the month of September 2025, on the Second Monday, September 8, 2025, 9:00 P.M., at the Seaford Fire Headquarters, 2170 Southard Avenue, Seaford, New York 11783-2544. All meetings of the Seaford Fire District are open to the public.

By order of: Board of Fire Commissioners

Seaford Fire District

Dated: August 4, 2025

Michael R. Foran, Secretary 155109

place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST MARK VAUGHAN, CASEY VAUGHAN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 8, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 3982 Kingsberry Road, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Plainedge-Wantagh, partly in the Town of Oyster Bay and Partly in The Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 52, Block 450, Lot 19A & 19B. Approximate amount of judgment $433,510.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008440/2015. Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-000 890 86618 155069

According to Ferretti, on Dec. 27, 2008, Scianablo posted, “i just shat myself while watching animal porn.” Ferretti said the comment was offensive and inappropriate, especially from someone seeking to lead a town that runs one of the largest animal shelters on Long Island.

“As somebody who has fought for animal rights as a county legislator for the last eight years introducing legislation to protect animals, it’s deeply disturbing that somebody who would want to run one of the largest animal shelters on Long Island would celebrate animal abuse,” Ferretti said.

Scianablo, standing across the street with supporters and animal rights advocates, said the post was made by his brother and called the controversy a distraction.

“We’re really sick and tired of career politicians spreading lies, disinformation, they’re really scraping the bottom of the barrel right here,” Scianablo said.

In an emailed statement from Scianablo’s team, his brother, Jason, said he wrote the Facebook post as a juvenile joke after Joseph had returned from serving in combat as a U.S. Marine in Iraq.

“In 2008, I made a stupid, juvenile post on my brother’s Facebook as a joke,” Scianablo’s brother said in an emailed statement. “My brother had

returned from serving in combat as a US Marine in Iraq. For months, our family lived with the fear that we might lose him. When he came home, the relief was overwhelming, and I slipped back into being the kid brother who teased him instead of the man who should have been thanking him.”

Jason added that his brother went on to serve four years as an NYPD officer and was seriously injured in the line of duty while protecting victims of domestic violence. Jason said Joseph has risked his life many times for fellow Marines, New Yorkers, and strangers in danger, and that he has earned his roles through service and sacrifice.

A follow-up post made the same day in 2008 stated, “Just took my computer back from my brother Jason.” During the event, Ferretti questioned why the post remained online for 17 years.

Ferretti, of Levittown, was sworn in as interim supervisor after Don Clavin resigned on Aug. 5. He previously represented Levittown, Bethpage, North Massapequa and parts of Farmingdale as a Nassau County Legislator.

Scianablo, of Garden City, is a Marine veteran and former New York City police officer. The Nassau County Democratic Party says he brings leadership, integrity and compassion to the race.

Ferretti is calling for an apology. “It is sick. It is depraved. And Joe Scianablo needs to come clean with the residents of the town of Hempstead,” he said.

Scianablo disagrees. “He’s making this an issue, wasting taxpayer time and money,” he said. “There’s nothing there, it clearly dictates that.”

Scianablo said there is no issue with the 17-year-old post, which he claims was posted by his brother, calling the issue a ‘political stunt.’

To: jwpersonal@ wilsoncollegeconsulting.com

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Spectacular New Construction

Are columns made in pieces?

Q. Our front porch is falling apart and we want to replace it, just as it is. The original columns are rotted at the bottoms and there are cracks where the columns were put together, vertical joints that appear as if the columns were made from many pieces. Is that common, that columns are made from many pieces? Do you have a recommendation for who can make new columns and what kind of wood is best? I’m not choosey, because they will be painted. What do you suggest? Also, I know you recommend getting permits, but I want to do the work myself, and it’s a direct replacement, so I want to just dismantle it and put it back. The roof concerns me most, so I plan to take a lot of pictures. Do you think this is as much of a problem as it would be if the porch were new?

A. So this is a column about columns. I remember working in a firm 40 years ago, when a renowned surgeon from Texas purchased 100-plus acres with a mansion on Long Island Sound, and I was assigned to design the additions and redesign the exteriors to be a modernized traditional shingle-style home. I was called into the firm’s principal, who chastised me for recommending synthetic trim and engineered shingles. The shingles I chose were pre-finished, and would still be performing well today, but instead, the house was finished in traditional wood, necessitating the expenditure of over $100,000 every three to four years for staining and painting. It was such a large expense that when I coincidently showed up 30 years later on that estate, to redesign for the new owner, they told me the surgeon grew tired of all the maintenance.

Wood columns are made in sections and bonded together at vertical seams. The sections are made from either steam-curved or shaped planks, cut to develop the rounded segments. You will notice that there has to be a space at the bottom to allow humidity and rain to drain and evaporate. Without that air space, the rotting is accelerated.

Because the columns will be painted, you’re better off with fiberglass columns, which come in a variety of shapes, lengths and styles. They are structural, and you’ll never need to replace them. Due to their stability, they hold a painted finish much longer, requiring painting only once a decade or two, but they still require an air space at the base.

The main reason for a permit isn’t just to have a piece of paper or cover the local government for liability should anyone get hurt. The permit process also confirms the replacement construction is safe and will last. The roof attachment, porch floor, foundation and how columns are spaced to transfer loads is critical. Incorrectly placed fastening, and a lack of structural checking and code compliance can create water problems and cause the replacement porch to require premature replacement. Just do things safely. Good luck!

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This ain’t Texas: We must end Hochul’s partisan war

When voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2014 creating New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission, the goal was clear: to take politics out of the process and put the people back in charge of drawing their political maps.

But Albany is at it again.

Democratic lawmakers are now pushing a constitutional amendment to allow mid-decade redistricting — not because the law requires it, and not because populations shifted, but because it might help them win. Their excuse? “Texas is doing it.”

That’s not governance. That’s retaliation. And it’s dangerous.

Let’s remember: In 2022, the Court of Appeals resoundingly struck down Albany Democrats’ gerrymandered maps for violating the state Constitution. It was a clear rebuke. The voters had spoken in 2014, and the court reaffirmed their will.

And yet, despite already spending over $20 million of taxpayer money on

lawyers, consultants and failed commissions, Albany Democrats want to try again. They want to build a permanent partisan escape hatch into the Constitution — so they can redraw maps whenever it suits them.

This time, they’re declaring war. Literally.

Gov. Kathy Hochul recently called for dismantling the IRC entirely, saying, “This is a war … the gloves are off … we’re done playing nice.” She even hosted Texas Democrats who fled their state to break a quorum over redistricting — then floated that New York should fight fire with fire.

This is not leadership. It’s constitutional vandalism.

VIntegrity. Instead it became a $10 million deadlocked commission whose maps were ignored. Lawmakers seized control, chaos ensued, and the courts had to clean up the mess.

Now Albany wants to enshrine that chaos into law.

oters should choose their representation — not the other way around.

Let me be clear: I’m not a Texas Republican, and I’m certainly not a New York Democrat trying to hijack our electorate. I’m a Long Island assemblyman who believes voters should choose their political representation — not the other way around. I believe in decency, the rule of law, and the idea that these ends do not justify the means.

And if this amendment passes the Legislature, I will see them in court.

The IRC may be imperfect, but it was created by the people of New York with one goal in mind: stability. Fairness.

Let’s look at the price we’ve already paid: $7 million in outside redistricting contracts; $3 million in State Senate legal fees; $1.5 million by the Assembly; and $2.4 million in direct litigation costs. All funded by taxpayers. And what has this endless redistricting battle delivered? Confusion. Distrust. Broken promises. The only thing worse than politicians choosing their voters is asking those voters to pay for it.

I won’t stand idly by while our Constitution becomes a casualty of partisan warfare. And I won’t let Hochul — or anyone else — rip it up just because they’re losing the game.

What we need now is not another power grab. We need a peace deal — not between political parties, but between our elected officials and the people of New York. A ceasefire in the redistricting wars. A commitment to play by the rules we all agreed to.

Because if we don’t, the consequenc-

es will cascade: more lawsuits, more court-drawn maps, more public cynicism. And while Albany’s political class obsesses over lines on a map, the real issues — our affordability, housing, immigration, mental health, insurance, and rampant fraud crises — go unaddressed.

This moment demands more than partisanship. It demands principle. If Albany Democrats push this amendment forward, they will betray the voters, break the public trust, and ignite another political firestorm. And I will meet them — with legislation, with public opposition and, if necessary, with litigation in both state and federal courts.

To my colleagues, I offer a final word of caution, and a plea: You don’t defend democracy by undermining it. You don’t restore public trust by rewriting rules to stay in power. You don’t govern by declaring war on the very voters you serve.

Let’s put the voters first. Let’s honor the Constitution. Let’s broker a peace deal — not to help one party win, but to help New Yorkers win, and heal. I stand ready to fight, but more important, I stand ready to lead.

If this becomes a war, I’ll see you in court. But I’d rather see us return to decency, together.

Jake Blumencranz represents the 15th Assembly District.

For Mets fans, this year was supposed to be different

in early June, I was planning my October.

The Mets, whose record at the time was 41–24, led the National League East by3½ games on June 7. They didn’t just look like contenders — they looked like one of the best teams in baseball. Their pitching rotation was sharp, leading the major leagues with an ERA of 2.4. Their bats were delivering timely hits. And for once, the bullpen didn’t make me want to walk into traffic. It was, dare I say, fun to be a Mets fan. But these are the Mets. Fun is fleeting. Hope is hazardous, and being a fan is not for the faint of heart. And now, two months later, I’m left wondering what happened to the team that had me believing. Since that June date, the Mets had gone 22–31 as of Sunday night. That’s not just a slump; that’s a collapse. At press time, they trailed the Philadelphia

Phillies by 5½ games in the N.L. East and were once again staring down the possibility of a late-season scramble just to get into the postseason. Sound familiar? It should. Last year’s agonizing, stress-filled play-in saga added to my existing gray hair.

And the worst part? It didn’t have to be this way.

In the days before the July 31 trade deadline, the front office made moves — smart ones, even. Acquiring left-hander Gregory Soto and right-handers

Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley — all three are relievers — and outfielder Cedric Mullins.

Htheir heads.

ope is hazardous, and being a fan of this team is not for the faint of heart.

Being a Mets fan means riding the emotional equivalent of the Cyclone at Coney Island — except instead of screaming with joy, you’re mostly screaming at the bullpen. We’ve been here before: 2007, 2008, 2015’s near-miracle, 2022’s 101win team that fizzled in the Wild Card Series. Even last year’s appearance in the League Championship Series, just to lose to the Dodgers, felt like a cruel joke.

chises play meaningful baseball while we stew in what-ifs.

There’s still time. Two months remain, and the National League is crowded. If the Mets can rediscover what worked — if their arms stay healthy, if the lineup settles into a groove, if the new acquisitions mesh quickly — this team can still avoid the play-in.

They can still push deep. But those ifs are starting to feel heavier by the day.

They added those arms and a little pop to the lineup, trying to patch what was clearly fraying. For a moment, it looked like the front office had figured it out: Invest in the stretch run, avoid the one-game elimination trap and push for an actual run in October.

But good decisions in the front office don’t always translate into wins on the field. Injuries happened. Slumps happened. And maybe, just maybe, the pressure of being “the team to beat” got into

This year was supposed to be different. And for a while, it was. The earlyseason version of the Mets played like a complete team. Watching them was a reminder of why we stick with baseball — for the rhythms, the tension, the slowburn drama of a team finding itself. It felt earned. It felt genuine. Now? I watch games bracing for the bullpen to unravel in the seventh inning. I second-guess every swing with runners in scoring position. I wonder if we’ve already seen the best this team has to offer — and if we’re about to spend another fall watching other fran-

Baseball is cruel that way. The highs don’t last. The lows can seem to stretch forever. And sometimes the worst thing the sport can give you isn’t heartbreak, it’s hope.

The frustrations and stresses of being a Mets fan have no boundaries. Especially after a weekend series in which they lost three games to the Central Division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. A team with so much promise now must pick up the pieces, starting this week with a series against its annual nemesis, the Atlanta Braves. So I’ll watch, and hope the turnaround starts there. Because I’m a Mets fan. And that is what we do.

Get involved — join your local civic association

We Long Islanders pride ourselves on our tight-knit neighborhoods — where we know our neighbors, care about our schools and keep an eye on the quality of life around us.

But strong communities don’t happen by accident. They take work, collaboration, and a willingness to roll up our sleeves when challenges arise. That’s where civic associations have a role.

Civic associations are the heartbeat of thriving communities, bringing neighbors together to solve problems, advocate for resources and foster meaningful connections. They are volunteerdriven organizations that give residents a collective voice and a platform for making changes. And in a time when so many people are frustrated by governmental red tape and feel disconnected from the work our legislators do, civic groups offer a way to take action where you live — and see the results.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, civic associations are tackling the issues that matter most to their residents: keeping streets safe, preserving open space, making infrastructure improvements, protecting the environment, supporting local businesses. They hold pub-

letters

Nassau County isn’t a police state. ICE is just making it

To the Editor:

lic forums at which residents can question elected officials face to face. They organize cleanup days to beautify parks and playgrounds. They rally for traffic safety measures, improved lighting, and the repair of roads and sidewalks. They speak out at zoning board meetings.

These groups also help knit together the social fabric of our neighborhoods. Civic associations often host holiday celebrations, block parties, cultural festivals, and other events that bring residents together. They foster a sense of belonging that is too often missing in our lives these days, when it’s easy to retreat behind doors and screens.

When residents band together, it’s harder for elected officials to ignore their concerns. A single phone call or email might go unanswered, but a unified letter from a civic association — backed by dozens, or hundreds, of neighbors — commands attention.

Long Island has a proud tradition of grassroots involvement. Many of our strongest civic victories — from preserving coastal wetlands to blocking irresponsible overdevelopment — were made possible by everyday residents who refused to sit on the sidelines. They showed up, spoke out and organized.

safer.

Re Claudia Borecky’s letter in the July 31-Aug. 6 issue, “Nassau County is showing signs of becoming a police state”: Perhaps another way of looking at County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s reallocating 10 brave detectives to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement is that they are being deployed exactly where they should be.

They will be removing criminal illegals and continuing to make Nassau County safe. Dismantling gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, which are transnational criminal organizations, is another move toward public safety. Under the current administration’s immigration policies, securing our borders will reduce the volume of fentanyl that has been flowing into our country. This will save many thousand of lives per year.

As a proud first-generation immigrant, I am all for legal immigration. But in New York state, there has been a burden placed on our school systems and hospitals due to mass illegal immigration. The cost of housing illegals was estimated to be well into the billions in 2023 alone.

The Democratic party of my father is gone. Replacing it is a party of open borders, defunding the police, defending criminals, the “green new scam,” men in women’s sports, DEI, election

And they did it not for personal gain, but because they cared about the place they call home.

Civic associations need new members to survive — and that’s where you can help.

Too often, a small group of volunteers carries the load year after year. Without fresh ideas and extra hands, these groups risk fading away — along with the community’s ability to respond to challenges.

If you’ve never been to a meeting, try attending the next one in your area. You’ll learn about local issues, meet new neighbors, and see how quickly your voice can make a difference.

In the end, joining your local civic association is about more than fixing a pothole or stopping a bad development. It’s about ensuring that Long Island remains a place where people look out for one another, where our neighborhoods stay safe and welcoming, and where the future reflects the values we share.

Your community needs you. Those who show up — in person, around the table, ready to listen, prepared to speak and willing to work together, will write Long Island’s future. Be one of them.

interference, and high crime due to bail reform. National Democrats claim to be the party for women’s rights, yet turned a blind eye to the fact that so many of the women crossing the southern border

under the previous administration were raped. How many people were complicit with the cover-up of President Biden’s cognitive decline?

As the policies of the Trump adminis-

Nonprofit grant program helps secure houses of worship

aLaUra a. GiLLen

s the representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District, I am urging houses of worship across Nassau County’s South Shore to apply for the fiscal year 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The NSGP is a critical tool that provides federal funding to houses of worship and other nonprofits for security enhancements, including physical security infrastructure, emergency alert systems and certain contracted security personnel.

Earlier this month, I urged the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to issue NSGP

grant applications for fiscal year 2025 during a hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. I spoke directly with the acting administrator about how synagogues, churches and many other houses of worship and religious institutions across the South Shore rely on this critical funding to keep worshippers safe.

After months of delay, I am pleased that the administration has finally made these funds available for fiscal year 2025. My office has already begun working with houses of worship across the 4th District to prepare their applications, and I encourage all those interested in applying for this federal funding opportunity to reach out for more information on the application process.

a nd it’s an urgent need as we face an increase in hate and extremism.

must apply for the NSGP through the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. More information on how to apply will be available from the division. In the meantime, I encourage houses of worship interested in applying to make use of the Getting Started Guide, available on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ website, to make sure you are prepared to apply.

to safeguard our institutions is particularly urgent as we face an increase in hate and extremism in New York and across the country.

As threats against houses of worship rise, the need for contracted security personnel has become a reality for many of our faith-based communities. I have also spoken with faith leaders in my district about the need to increase the ability of houses of worship to use NSGP funding for those personnel. While that funding supports physical security enhancements, there is a real need to help reimburse personnel costs.

Houses of worship and nonprofits

Letters

tration start to take hold, we find secure borders, fair tariffs, lower fuel costs, multiple peace treaties, energy independence, and a renewed pride in the USA. The Democrats have tried to cheat, impeach (two times), bankrupt and imprison President Trump. I look forward to seeing the outrage and pearl clutching as the president presides over the country’s 250th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 and the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Coming soon, the hammer is going to drop on everyone involved win the Russian collusion hoax, with multiple mug shots to follow.

TOM O’CONNOR

North Bellmore

Ryan will be missed at NUMC

To the Editor:

Under the leadership of Megan Ryan, the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NuHealth) experienced a revitalization that had been absent for over a decade. As CEO, Ryan brought back a clear mission and vision centered on patient care, operational integrity and long-term sustainability.

Her approach to restructuring the finance department significantly improved revenue through more efficient billing practices. In addition, Ryan expanded access to care by extending clinic hours to better serve our community. She led a successful fundraiser to acquire a

brand new, state-of-the-art Mammography Van, and construction is now underway for a first-time catheterization lab.

Ryan’s leadership extended beyond the walls of the Nassau University Medical Center. When it was revealed that New York state owed NuHealth nearly $1 billion in Medicaid funding, Ryan took action. She organized and financed a bus trip to Albany, where she and NuHealth employees lobbied lawmakers — having previously testified at budget hearings — demanding the funds NuHealth was rightfully owed. Her advocacy for NuHealth and its patients also included standing firm against the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority, which proposed downsizing. She fought to protect both the workforce and the quality of care for the community.

Ryan’s previous efforts had ensured that NuHealth continued to deliver high-quality services to families, even in the face of political and financial pressures. Unfortunately, it appears that those efforts to stand up for NuHealth’s interests drew political retaliation. The proposed state takeover of NuHealth by Gov. Kathy Hochul, with the help of NIFA’s chairman, Richard Kessel, may be viewed as silencing a CEO who had simply been doing what was right for the people.

Ryan should be commended, not condemned, for her courage, advocacy, and dedication to the community and employees she served. VINCENT

I am committed to making sure that our religious institutions have the necessary resources to protect themselves so that every community can worship and practice religion free from fear. It is important to bring back more of our tax dollars from Washington to better protect our communities from terrorism and other threats. Securing this funding

The NSGP is a critical tool to help secure our houses of worship and other nonprofits. I will continue to work on this important issue, and look forward to helping these entities bring back federal dollars to keep our communities on Long Island safe.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

Framework by Mallory Wilson

ROCHELLE